Visiting Tokyo Disneyland is one of the top things to do in Tokyo with kids but you’ll find that adults enjoy it just as much. It’s one of the two Tokyo Disney Resort parks — Tokyo DisneySea is the second — and full of magic that is similar to other Disneylands. (We’ve been to all of them.)
This review and guide below includes what you need to know when exploring Tokyo Disneyland park. While it’s not possible for many of us to visit now, you can still read up on what it’s like when it comes to best rides, top hotels, dining experiences, and what to do.
About Tokyo Disneyland
This Disneyland in Tokyo opened its doors in 1983, one of the first outside of the United States. The park is modeled after Disneyland in California, as well as the Magic Kingdom in Florida.
Even though the park features similar details to its sister parks, you’ll see that Tokyo Disneyland has its own unique touch woven through the seven different lands. Some rides and attractions you’ll recognize while a handful are unique to the park.
Tokyo DisneySea, on the other hand is completely unique, and I’ll share separately why we love it.
Reopening Guidelines
Tokyo Disneyland reopened with reduced capacity on July 1 in addition to new health and safety measures in place.
Guests must agree to temperature checks by Cast Members and will not be admitted with temperatures higher than 37.5°C (99.5°F).
Normal bag screenings will still occur prior to entry and there will be distancing markers at the gates and ride queues. Tables and seating throughout the park will be spaced appropriately and guests to use hand sanitizing stations regularly.
Characters will still roam the park but guests are asked not to interact closely with them.
Face coverings are required with one exception. If you are outdoors and can maintain an acceptable distance from other guests during the summer season, you may remove it to prevent heat stroke or exhaustion.
Having visited Tokyo Disneyland in the summer heat, I completely understand why this exception was made. You can read more about the new measures.
Tokyo Disneyland Tickets
Tokyo Disneyland tickets and Tokyo DisneySea tickets can usually be purchased online or at the gate, but right now you’ll need a date-specific ticket purchased online in advance. The date you purchase is your park reservation.
Even in normal circumstances, I highly recommend purchasing your tickets online. Lines are notoriously long here and there’s no need to stand in a ticket booth line when you could be in the actual time park.
1-Day Tokyo Disneyland Tickets:
- Adult: ¥8,200
- Junior (12-17 years): ¥6,900
- Child (4-11 years): ¥4,900
A two-day passport can be purchased for 50% more, and I’d recommend doing this to ensure you see the most of the park. You also have the option of selecting 3- or 4-day Magic Passports. Frequent visitors should choose the annual Magic Passport to enjoy the parks throughout the year.
The best way to buy Tokyo Disneyland tickets is direct. While I am a fan of discounted theme park tickets and am compensated should you buy through discounters mentioned in this post, there isn’t a way right now to purchase them and also go straight to the gate.
Historically, it hasn’t been easy for some with foreign credit cards to purchase Disneyland tickets in which case you can check with our partner Voyagin (ticket pick up is at Maihama Station).
Top tip: Remember to print out your ticket before heading to the park. Visitors who don’t hold printed passes will have to wait before entering the park.
You are also supposed to bring an ID like your passport. I wasn’t asked to show mine during our most recent visit but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared.
Tokyo Disneyland Opening Hours
Depending on different dates and special holidays, times may vary. But usually, the park is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Tickets sales stop one hour prior to closing time.
The Seven Themed Lands
A total of seven lands reside in Disneyland Tokyo, each with its own unique theme and amusement rides.
World Bazaar
The magnificent entrance called World Bazaar is a bit different than the traditional Main Street U.S.A found in other parks. Styled to the 1920s, World Bazaar represents an old town in America.
A variety of shops and restaurants line the Victorian styled streets. World Bazaar also features Tokyo Disneyland’s biggest candy store, with treats you can bring back to your hotel.
Rides and Attractions:
- Omnibus
- Penny Arcade
Adventureland
Most of the adventure movie-themed rides are found in Adventureland. With jungles and mysterious lands, it’s pure entertainment for the whole family. Adventure land resembles all parts of the world, ranging from Africa, South America, South Pacific, and Asia.
Rides and Attractions:
- Western River Railroad
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Jungle Cruise: Wildlife Expedition
- Swiss Family Treehouse
- The Enchanted Tiki Room: Stitch Presents “Aloha E Komo Mai!”
Westernland
Styled after the wild west in America, it’s like stepping back in time. This area is set to mimic the architecture of the American West, and here you’ll find some of the most popular adventure rides in Tokyo Disneyland.
Rides and Attractions:
- Western Shootin’ Gallery
- Country Bear Theater
- Mark Twain Riverboat
- Tom Sawyer Island Rafts
- Big Thunder Mountain
Critter Country
Folktales come to life in the south of America. Taking a trip around the river is a must where you can glide on the Mark Twain Riverboat. The land features parts of the Native American culture and traditions, like the canoes.
Rides and Attractions:
- Splash Mountain
- Beaver Brothers Explorer Canoes
Fantasyland
The ultimate world of all our favorite Disney tales and movies. Snow White and Pinocchio make their appearances, along with some of Disney’s most famous princesses.
The iconic Cinderella Castle at the heart of the park steals the show for most of the guests. The Tokyo Disneyland castle was built to reflect this Disney Princess story as seen through the eyes of the Japanese.
Rides and Attractions:
- Alice’s Tea Party
- “It’s a small world”
- Castle Carousel
- Snow White’s Adventures
- Cinderella’s Fairy Tale Hall
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- Pinnochio’s Daring Journey
- Pooh’s Hunny Hunt
- Haunted Mansion
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic
Toontown
An absolute must for families with young kids. Visit the funny town where Mickey Mouse and all his friends live in a colorful cartoon world. There are pleasant parks here, which serve well for families traveling with young children.
Rides and Attractions:
- Gadget’s Go Coaster
- Goofy’s Paint ‘n’ Play House
- Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Treehouse
- Toon Park
- Donald’s Boat
- Minnie’s House
- Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin
Tomorrowland
Designed to leave you feeling as though you’ve traveled in time with a space-aged world of tomorrow. Each part of the land features unique views of what the future could possibly be, and entices an element of discovery.
Rides and Attractions:
- Star Tours: The Adventures Continue
- Sitch Encounter
- Space Mountain
- Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters
- Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek!
5 Best Tokyo Disneyland Rides
Below are some of the top Tokyo Disneyland rides.
Space Mountain
Take an exciting journey through space and experience the wonders of the galaxy. State-of-the-art spaceships start their liftoffs through a space-themed dome.
There aren’t any terrifying drops, but it is still an intense adventure. The darkness adds to the thrill and with plenty of turns and twists, you never expect what’s coming.
Splash Mountain
Getting splashed is all part of the fun when it comes to amusement parks. The gentle boat ride will take you through the Disney classic movie, Song of the South. Follow the adventures of Br’er Rabbit, watch the adorable animations, and listen to the cheerful melody.
Just to give you a heads up, the ride ends with a 45-degree drop down a 16-meter high waterfall. Be sure to enjoy the splash.
It’s one of the most popular rides, consider putting this as one of your first rides to avoid the long wait.
Pirates of the Caribbean
Set sail on an adventure through the sea and join the animatronic figure of Captain Jack Sparrow. It’s a relaxing indoor cruise that takes you along pirate raids and spots with the famous movie characters. Part of the thrill comes from cannonballs whizzing overhead and the elaborate scenery.
Haunted Mansion
The Haunted Mansion is a good one for a rainy or hot day. With an eerie setting, this ride takes you through a house that’s said to be haunted by 999 ghosts and ghouls. Although it’s not as scary as it sounds.
The gentle ride shows off lots of special effects and interesting decor. The show is in Japanese, but the music and creepy characters make the ride super fun.
Pooh’s Honey Hunt
Enjoy the magical world of Hundred Acre Wood and join the journey of Pooh Bear and his friends. Travel in a honey pot and read chapters of one of the best Disney classics. Occasionally the ride will go in different directions, showing off different parts of the story.
Tokyo Disneyland Food and Dining
In terms of theme, cuisine, and food quality, Disney in Tokyo has some excellent restaurants. Given the efficiency in Japan, the service is also top-quality, and noticeably better than most countries.
Another cultural factor to keep in mind is that tipping isn’t part of the culture, even if your service is beyond expectations.
Popular Street Food at Disney Tokyo
Grabbing a snack on the go is the easiest way of saving time and getting to the rides faster. Popcorn is a really big deal so you may want to invest in a bucket to sample the flavors available at carts around the park.
- Popcorn coming in a variety of 16 flavors
- Mickey Mouse shaped pretzels and waffles
- Sweet treats for takeout
- Snacks for takeout
- Ice cream or frozen desserts
Disney Japan Restaurants
Collectively, the restaurants offer a variety of different food options and restaurant styles. Generally, you’ll find popular amusement park meals such as burgers, pizzas, and classic desserts. You’ll also find traditional Japanese cuisine, a Japanese take on Mexican food, and even a wide selection of Italian food.
6 Top Tokyo Disneyland Restaurants
- Hungry Bear Restaurant: Serves wholesome plates of curry that’ll fuel you for a day of adventures. We ate katsu curry that I would highly recommend.
- Crystal Palace Restaurant: Grand buffeteria restaurant that serves an array of food from various cuisines.
- Grandma Sara’s Kitchen: Serves the best comfort meals in Critter County including noodles and rice bowls. The interior feels like you’re dining in a bear’s den.
- Queen of Hearts Banquet Hall: Wonderland-themed food with unique desserts and a varied menu.
- China Voyager: Serves meals cook by a man on a pirate ship (so the story goes), with plenty of tasty noodle options.
- The Diamond Horseshoe: Dine in the Old West styled restaurant with exciting live performances. You’ll need a reservation here.
Tokyo Disney Resort Dining Reservations
Dining reservations or priority seatings give you the option of booking and selecting a time to cut ahead of the ques. Most restaurants and dining services offer this feature and it’s a great option to avoid not getting a table.
Keep in mind that it doesn’t cut the entire queuing process. Rather, you get bumped up to the front of the line.
Unfortunately, bookings can’t be made in advance outside of Tokyo, Japan. If you’re using a one-day ticket, book your dining experience from 9 a.m. onward.
Skipping Lines with Tokyo Disneyland FastPass
You’ll need a time management tool for having a full day of adventuring around the park. A Tokyo Disneyland FastPass is used to skip lines and it can literally save you hours. It also allows you to do the most popular rides in the park, without having to wait in extended lines.
To obtain a FastPass is a relatively simple process but a little archaic compared to other Disney theme parks. Your printed ticket will have instructions for how to fold it so that it fits into a FastPass machine. Slip it in until the green light illuminates and you’re good to go. Everyone in your party needs a FastPass.
Tokyo Disneyland FastPass rides include:
- Splash Mountain (Critter Country)
- Haunted Mansion (Fantasyland)
- Pooh’s Hunny Hunt (Fantasyland)
- Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters (Tomorrowland)
- Monsters Inc. Ride & Go Seek (Tomorrowland)
- Star Tours (Tomorrowland)
- Space Mountain (Tomorrowland)
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Westernland)
There is an English version of the Tokyo Disneyland app but you need a Japan Apple or Google account to download it. It’s complicated so we’ve never used it. If you’re a foreigner and would like detailed instructions in regard to how to use the Tokyo Disneyland app, the folks at Voyagin have written a guide.
If you get access to the app, you can select Digital FastPasses, sort of how we choose MaxPass through the Disneyland app in California.
Tokyo Disneyland Resort Hotels
Make your experience a dream come true and book yourself a stay in one of the official Tokyo Disneyland hotels. You’ll enjoy more Disney magic, save travel time, or even receive early entry into the park.
Tokyo Disneyland Hotel
This is the closest hotel to the park and overlooks a large portion of Disneyland. It’s also one of the most luxurious hotels, too, with rooms themed to certain Disney films. Staying at the hotel includes early entrance to the park (15 minutes), while also saving on transport fees. The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is located here, too.
Disney Ambassador Hotel
Ideally located at the gateway to Disney Tokyo Resort, The Ambassador Hotel will take you back in time to America in the 1930s. In the art-deco style hotel, guests can enjoy Disney character dining and character-themed rooms.
The luxury hotel includes comfortable rooms, fine restaurants, and daily shuttle service to the parks. Ikspiari is a shopping, dining, and entertaining area situated next to the Disney Ambassador Hotel.
Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta
Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta is located within the DisneySea theme park. Guests can relax after their day of adventuring and soak up the views of Harbor of Porto Paradiso.
The luxurious rooms have a classic Italian feel to them and guests have direct park access which is convenient when visiting with kids.
Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel
Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel is perfect for families looking for something a little less extravagant. This is the only Disney hotel not located in the Resort area. A free 20-minute shuttle drive into the resort is offered to guests.
The budget-friendly resort is divided into two themed hotels. Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel – Wish, is themed to everything that wishes and dreams are made of. While Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel – Discover reveals a sense of adventure and excitement.
Getting to Tokyo Disney Resort
If you’re not staying in a Tokyo Disney Resort hotel, you’ll most likely take the train. Travel on the Japanese Railway (JR) Keiyo Line or Musashino from Tokyo Station. It takes about 15 minutes to reach Maihama Station, which is the sixth stop.
If you take the train to Maihama Station, you’ll need to follow the signs to the Tokyo Disney Resort Line monorail to get to the parks or hotels. It reminds me of the train to Hong Kong Disneyland between the resort and Sunny Bay MTR station.
The four stops are Tokyo Disneyland Station, the Resort Gateway Station, Bayside Station (the official hotels are here), and Tokyo DisneySea.
If you’re aiming to start the journey straight from the airport, you can take the Tokyo Disney Resort bus. The bus leaves straight from Narita Airport, where you can buy a ticket directly from the airport.
The journey from the airport will take around 75 minutes and costs 900 yen for children and 1,800 yen for adults. You can also purchase discount shuttle bus tickets through Klook.
Tokyo Disneyland Guide Final Thoughts
You definitely feel a sense of place when visiting Tokyo Disneyland even though some of the rides are the same as at Magic Kingdom, Hong Kong Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, or even Shanghai Disneyland.
If it’s going to rain, don’t let this dissuade you. We went once during rain and it was brilliant for keeping the crowds away and didn’t take away from our experience at all. It was a light rain though and not a downpour.
I would advise you not to try to see both Disneyland and DisneySea on the same day but rather to split them up. The first time we visited was when my daughter was little and this was the advice given to us by the concierge at Four Seasons Tokyo at Marunouchi. And, he was completely right especially since it’s so easy to get to Tokyo Disney Resort from Tokyo Station.
You can spend a full day or more in each park — easily!
from Blog – La Jolla Mom https://ift.tt/2ZqeGP2
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